Tyler Reddick has done something no driver in modern NASCAR history has ever accomplished: win the first three races of a Cup Series season.
On Sunday at the iconic Circuit of the Americas, Reddick delivered a poised and commanding performance, holding off road-course ace Shane van Gisbergen to secure his third straight victory of 2026. The triumph follows earlier wins at the season-opening Daytona 500 and at EchoPark Speedway near Atlanta.
Calm Under Pressure in Austin
The result? A place in the record books — and a massive early lead in the championship standings.
Starting from the pole, Reddick looked sharp all weekend in his No. 45 Toyota. But the final stage at COTA was anything but comfortable.
Van Gisbergen, who dominated road courses in 2025, relentlessly pressured Reddick over the final 20 laps. For several tense circuits, the New Zealander hovered on Reddick’s bumper, searching for an opening. Yet each time he closed in, Reddick responded — clean lines, steady throttle, and zero mistakes.
Over the final six laps, Reddick began to pull away, eventually crossing the finish line nearly four seconds ahead. It marked his 11th career Cup Series victory and his second win at COTA — the first time he has scored multiple wins at the same track.
“It means the world,” Reddick said afterward. “To get three in a row and make history — especially having to beat a guy like SVG — that’s just incredible.”
Michael Jordan Celebrates a New “Three-Peat”
Watching from pit road was team co-owner Michael Jordan, whose 23XI Racing organization continues to rise as a powerhouse in NASCAR. The basketball legend, famous for his championship “three-peats” with the Chicago Bulls, now shares the term with one of his drivers.
Jordan praised both Reddick’s composure and the leadership of co-owner Denny Hamlin, crediting the veteran driver with building a championship-caliber operation.
“He kept to his strategy,” Jordan said. “You get a little nervous seeing SVG coming back, but he had it covered.”
The victory continues a remarkable stretch for 23XI Racing, which recently secured long-term stability following a major legal settlement that solidified its place in NASCAR’s franchise model. Since then, the team has been nearly unstoppable on track.
Championship Picture Taking Shape
After three races, Reddick holds a commanding 70-point lead in the standings. His teammate Bubba Wallace sits second, while Chase Elliott trails in third.
Sunday’s race also featured strong performances from defending winner Christopher Bell, who finished third, and rising contender Ty Gibbs in fourth.
Meanwhile, rookie Connor Zilisch endured a rollercoaster afternoon. After early spins and restart chaos, he recovered to finish 14th — a respectable result, but short of expectations entering a track many believed suited his skill set.
Veteran Brad Keselowski also gutted out a 20th-place finish while continuing to recover from a broken leg suffered in December.
What’s Next?
The NASCAR Cup Series heads west next to Phoenix Raceway. The big question now: Can Reddick make it four straight?
History has already been made. But if this start is any indication, Reddick and 23XI Racing may be just getting started.
